Massachusetts § 14A - Quarantine or destruction of animals affected with vesicular stomatitis or vesicular exanthema

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 14A — Quarantine or destruction of animals affected with vesicular stomatitis or vesicular exanthema, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 14A. Quarantine or destruction of animals affected with vesicular stomatitis or vesicular exanthema

Section 14A. All domestic animals which are affected with vesicular stomatitis, or vesicular exanthema, as determined by the director, shall be quarantined.

Animals which are affected with vesicular exanthema, as determined by the director, shall be slaughtered at a slaughtering establishment under federal supervision and the products of such animals shall be processed. Animals affected with vesicular stomatitis shall be disposed of as the director directs.

All such animals, either too small, or too young, to be of value commercially as meat, shall be disposed of as the director directs. The director shall make such rules and regulations in respect to the importation into the commonwealth of such animals or products therefrom as he may deem necessary.

The director shall also issue such directions for the cleansing and disinfection of buildings, premises and places in which vesicular stomatitis or vesicular exanthema exists, or has existed, and of property which may be on or contained therein, as in his opinion may be necessary or expedient, and no such buildings, premises, places and property shall be again used for the raising, care or maintenance of such animals until so authorized by the director in writing. No rules or regulations shall take effect until approved by the governor and council.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 14A

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 14A cover?

Section 14A ("Quarantine or destruction of animals affected with vesicular stomatitis or vesicular exanthema") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 14A?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 14A" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 14A apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.